Episode 181 – UK Travel Planning Podcast Year in Review
In episode 181 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast Tracy and Doug look back on their most exciting year yet, reflecting on podcast growth, favourite travel moments, and the listener questions that shaped episodes throughout 2025.
They count down some of the year’s most popular episodes, covering unmissable London experiences, iconic sites like the Tower of London, the ever-popular Cotswolds, and essential UK travel tips that have helped listeners from more than 195 countries plan their trips with confidence.
The episode also includes shout-outs to trusted travel partners, from iconic black cab tours to small-group Cotswold adventures, along with behind-the-scenes insights into Tracy and Doug’s own travels across England, Scotland, and beyond.
To wrap up, they share a preview of what’s coming in 2026, including new travel resources, fresh podcast topics, and deeper dives into planning visits to London and destinations across the UK.
Whether you are planning your first UK trip or returning to explore more, this episode is filled with gratitude, light-hearted moments, and practical advice to inspire your next adventure.
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Episode 181 – Summary
What you’ll learn in this episode
Podcast milestones
How the UK Travel Planning Podcast reached 555,000+ downloads across 195 countries & territories and more than 13,000 cities.
Most popular episodes of 2025
A look back at standout episodes covering London, Bath, the Cotswolds, and unique UK travel experiences.
Behind-the-scenes insights
How we choose trusted travel partners and why small, family-run businesses are a key priority.
UK train travel tips
The realities of navigating UK train travel, including seat reservations, scenic routes, and how Doug’s rail expertise helps listeners plan with confidence.
Practical trip planning support
An overview of consultation and video review services, including personalised, train-focused itinerary advice.
Listener FAQs answered
Where to stay, how to plan itineraries without rushing, and the best ways to travel between UK cities.
Highlights from 2025 travels
Personal stories from London, Scotland, the Cotswolds, and special partner-led experiences.
What’s coming in 2026
A preview of upcoming podcast topics, new partnerships, and how listeners can help shape future episodes.
UK places, foods and words/concepts mentioned
🇬🇧 London >> The UK capital features heavily across top episodes, with advice on where to stay, what to see, and how to enjoy more unique experiences.
🕌 Tower of London, Westminster Abbey & Buckingham Palace >> Iconic London landmarks highlighted in popular solo episodes focused on history and first-time visitor tips.
🚄 Edinburgh & Scotland >> A base for extensive 2025 travels, including Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations, Caledonian Sleeper journeys, and exploring Scotland by rail.
🛤️ Caledonian Sleeper >> The famous overnight train between London and Scotland, discussed as both a memorable experience and a practical way to travel.
🏛️ Bath >> A historic city known for its Roman Baths and Georgian architecture, featured in partnership episodes with Bath Insider Tours.
🚕 Black Cab Tours >> Classic London taxi experiences with Discover Real London, highlighting the legendary “Knowledge” required of black cab drivers.
🌳 The Cotswolds >> A scenic rural region explored through partnership episodes, including award-winning small-group tours with Go Cotswolds.
🚌 The English Bus >> A listener-favourite small-group tour provider praised for personal experiences and excellent value.
🇬🇬 Channel Islands (Guernsey & Jersey) >> Destinations planned for future episodes, offering unique British history, culture, and landscapes.
🌸 English Country Gardens >> A listener-requested topic for future exploration, showcasing some of the UK’s most beautiful outdoor spaces.
🚆 BritRail Pass >> A flexible train ticket option discussed as a useful tool for simplifying UK rail travel.
🔄 “The Knowledge” >> The rigorous test London black cab drivers must complete to earn their licence.
🗺️ Itineraries >> A recurring theme throughout the episode, with guidance on creating well-paced UK travel plans and support available through consultations.
🎇 Hogmanay >> Scotland’s famous New Year celebration in Edinburgh, including reflections on its cancellation in 2025 due to storms.
Related content on UK Travel Planning and London Travel Planning
Podcasts
- Episode #132 – London 2025: 12 Essential Tips for Planning Your Perfect Trip
- Episode #133 – Discovering London: 5 Unmissable Experiences for Your 2025 Adventure
- Episode #142 – Exploring the Tower of London: History, Highlights, and Helpful Tips
